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Manhattan Today
By the People, for the People
Cooking Oil-Soaked Rags Spark Kitchen Fire at Midtown Bar & Grill
Improper storage of oily rags led to spontaneous ignition, forcing temporary closure of the Manhattan, IL business.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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A fire at Midtown Bar & Grill in Manhattan, Illinois was caused by cooking oil-soaked rags that spontaneously ignited due to improper storage, according to fire officials. The blaze, which was contained mostly to the kitchen, forced the temporary closure of the business as neighboring units sustained smoke damage.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the serious fire hazard posed by everyday materials like oil-soaked rags if they are not handled and stored properly. Spontaneous ignition of combustible materials can put businesses and communities at risk, underscoring the importance of fire prevention practices.
The details
Firefighters were called to the Midtown Bar & Grill around 6:30 a.m. on Monday and found heavy smoke and a kitchen fire. The blaze was extinguished within 15 minutes. An investigation found that rags used with cooking oils were stored in a way that "allowed heat to build up as the oil oxidized," leading to spontaneous ignition without any external flame or spark. The fire was ruled accidental in nature.
- Firefighters were called around 6:30 a.m. on Monday, February 10, 2026.
- The fire was extinguished within 15 minutes.
The players
Manhattan Fire Protection District
The local fire department that responded to and investigated the kitchen fire at Midtown Bar & Grill.
New Lenox Fire Protection District
Assisted the Manhattan Fire Protection District in the investigation.
Illinois State Fire Marshal's Office
Participated in the investigation into the cause of the fire.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Assisted in the investigation into the cause of the fire.
Kevin Schuster
The owner of Midtown Bar & Grill.
What they’re saying
“This incident serves as an important reminder that everyday materials, like oil-soaked rags, can pose a serious fire hazard if they are not handled and stored properly.”
— Dave Kolosh, Fire Marshal (Manhattan Fire Protection District)
“Huge thank you to the Manhattan Police Department and Manhattan Fire Department for their fast response, and thank you to our community for the overwhelming support and messages—it truly means everything to us. We look forward to opening back up very soon.”
— Kevin Schuster (Facebook)
What’s next
The Manhattan Fire Protection District is encouraging both residents and business owners to ensure that oily rags are always stored in approved metal containers with tight-fitting lids or otherwise handled in a way that prevents heat buildup.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the importance of proper storage and disposal practices for combustible materials like oil-soaked rags in order to prevent accidental fires that can put businesses and communities at risk. Simple precautions can make a significant difference in fire safety.
